A nurse is discussing the differences between skeletal and skin traction with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates understanding?

Clients with skin traction have more mobility than those with skeletal traction.

Clients with skin traction have more discomfort than those with skeletal traction.

Skeletal traction is more appropriate than skin traction for reducing a fracture.

Skeletal traction has less risk for infection than skin traction.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:

Skin traction is indeed less restrictive than skeletal traction, allowing for more mobility. It is applied using bandages or adhesive material to the skin, which can be removed or adjusted more easily than the pins or screws used in skeletal traction. This type of traction is typically used for short-term treatment before surgery or when the injury is less severe.

Choice B reason:

Discomfort levels can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the traction. However, skin traction is generally considered to be less painful than skeletal traction because it is less invasive and applies less force. Skeletal traction, which involves the insertion of pins or wires directly into the bone, is likely to cause more discomfort due to the invasive nature of the procedure.

Choice C reason:

Skeletal traction is more appropriate for reducing fractures, especially in cases where a greater force is needed to align the bones. It involves the surgical insertion of pins or wires directly into the bone, allowing for a stronger and more stable pull that is necessary for the realignment of complex fractures.

Choice D reason:

Skeletal traction carries a higher risk of infection compared to skin traction because it is more invasive. The insertion of pins or wires into the bone creates a potential entry point for bacteria, which can lead to infection at the site of insertion.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Babinski's sign is a neurological reflex that's tested by stroking the sole of the foot. A positive Babinski's sign, which is normal in infants but abnormal in adults, is indicated by dorsiflexion of the great toe (the toe points up) while the other toes fan out. This reflex suggests dysfunction of the corticospinal tract, which may be due to various neurological conditions. In the context of a stuporous patient with an unrepaired femur fracture, a positive Babinski's sign could indicate an acute neurological change possibly related to the injury or a secondary complication such as a fat embolism syndrome, which can occur after fractures and may affect the brain.

Choice B reason:

Pronation of the arms is not associated with Babinski's sign. Pronation is a rotational movement where the hand and upper arm are turned inwards. While arm movements are part of the neurological examination, they do not constitute a response to the plantar reflex test used to elicit Babinski's sign.

Choice C reason:

Pinpoint pupils may indicate opioid overdose or damage to the pons due to various causes, but they are not a component of Babinski's sign. Pupil size and reaction to light are important in neurological assessments, but they are separate from the reflexes tested by the Babinski sign.

Choice D reason:

Jerking contractions of the head and neck are not related to Babinski's sign. These could be indicative of seizure activity or other neurological disorders but are not a response to the plantar reflex test.

A. Performing range of motion B. Checking capillary refill C. Discussing cast care D. Managing pain

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
While performing range of motion exercises is important for maintaining joint function and preventing stiffness, it is not the first action a nurse should take. Range of motion exercises should only be performed after ensuring that there is no compromise in circulation or nerve function.

Choice B Reason:
Checking capillary refill is the correct first action. This quick test assesses the blood flow to the extremity and can indicate if there is any vascular obstruction. A delayed capillary refill time, which is more than 2 seconds, could signify compromised circulation and necessitate immediate intervention.

Choice C Reason:
Discussing cast care is important for client education and preventing complications such as skin breakdown and infection. However, it is not the first priority. The nurse should first ensure the client's physiological stability before providing education.

Choice D Reason:
Managing pain is a critical component of nursing care, especially for clients with fractures. However, the assessment of circulation takes precedence over pain management. Once it is established that there is no immediate threat to the limb's viability, pain management should be addressed promptly.

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A nurse is discussing the differences between skeletal and skin traction with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates understanding?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing the reflexes of a client who has an unrepaired femur fracture and has suddenly become stuporous. For which of the following findings should the nurse identify that the client exhibits Babinski's sign?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client who has a cast in place for a fractured tibia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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